Considering the injuries such a limiting policy creates, one must wonder how it can possibly take precedence over more children's immediate needs for a caring and permanent albeit racially divergent home. Certainly this situation defeats the primary purpose of child welfare. .

             The mentioned argument against interracial adoption-that of cultural genocide further unravels upon closer examination. Opponents assume that racial identity is not possible in families whose races differ from those of adopted children. This claim rests on the assumption that parents do not acknowledge their adopted children's native culture. However, studies reveal that many parents encourage their adopted children to explore and express their cultural roots (Bashir 3). For example, adopting parents may expose their minority children to prominent and positive role models. In addition, parents may provide their children with ample opportunities for social interaction with racially similar peers. Open dialogue about ethnic issues is yet another way to promote cross-racial understanding and tolerance. Such widespread parental efforts certainly weaken the argument that cultural genocide is inevitable when interracial adoption occurs. .

             Perhaps more important is the notion that cultural identity is not determined solely by familial relationships. Culture is possible only within a larger societal framework. Without doubt, family plays a crucial role in one's self-image; however, society also holds great sway over an individual's identity. It follows that minority children adopted into majority families can access their racial heritage through various societal organizations and mechanisms. Since the United States is a pluralistic society, there is no uncertainty that its citizens are increasingly able to access information and support regarding their respective heritages. Coupling this with the mentioned parental efforts to educate and support their minority children, there need not be the fear that the latter will automatically lose their racial identity.